The RMHS Orchesis Team’s dedication and hard work paid off as they delivered a stunning performance at the State Showcase that left everyone mesmerized. The Showcase was held at Evanston Township High School, on 14th April.

Sophomore, Haley Kurak, one of the talented dancers, shared her pre-performance ritual. She says, “Before going on stage, I try to clear my mind and enjoy watching the dancers still performing. Also, it is usually a standard custom to quickly congratulate the dancer exiting the stage before you go on to perform.” This ritual clears her head and gets her in the zone of delivering a magical performance.

One of the unique aspects of dancing with Orchesis, as Kurak notes, is the opportunity to work with student choreographers. “When dancing with a studio, dances are taught by teachers, and it is harder to form a personal connection to dances” she explains. This lets for creativity and personal expression in the dancers’ performances.

At the state showcase, the team performed a breathtaking dance to the song “Hollow,” choreographed by senior Aubrey Gerwin. Aubrey shared her creative process, saying, “My first step when it comes to choreography, although it may sound a bit odd, is I stand in an open space in my house, whether that be my kitchen or my room, and I improv to the song for about a minute or so to see what movement comes out of my body naturally.” This approach allowed her to connect with the music and create a unique and captivating dance.

The Orchesis team’s coach, Mrs. Varey, has been instrumental in guiding and motivating the dancers to reach their full potential. She is a source of inspiration for the team, and Haley Kurak claims, “She encourages them by showing how far the dance has come from the first rehearsal.”

The RMHS Orchesis Team’s performance at the state showcase was truly a remarkable accomplishment. The team’s dedication, hard work, and passion for dance were on full display, leaving the audience with a sense of awe and inspiration. Congratulations to the Orchesis team on their outstanding performance!